Spectrum - Volume 17 Issue 18 February 2, 1995 - Johnson named CHR interim dean

A non-profit publication of the Office of the University Relations of Virginia Tech,
including The Conductor , a special section of the Spectrum printed 4 times a year

Johnson named CHR interim dean

By Nancy Templeman

Spectrum Volume 17 Issue 18 - February 2, 1995

Associate professor Janet M. Johnson of the Department of Human Nutrition and Foods has been named interim dean of the College of Human Resources. The announcement was made Monday by interim Provost Gregory N. Brown.

Johnson undertook the position Monday, the same day that Peggy S. Meszaros, the former dean, began her new duties as provost and senior vice president of the university.

When Johnson's appointment was announced, Meszaros said, "I am very pleased with the appointment of Dr. Janet Johnson as interim dean of the College of Human Resources. She has been an integral part of the college and its functioning for many years and possesses the knowledge, skill, and dedication to lead it in the turbulent times ahead. I pledge to work closely with her as the transition takes place to ensure no momentum is lost. Her colleagues in the college, around campus, and across the state and nation are all enthusiastic about this appointment and will give her their full support."

Johnson replied with, "I am very honored to be chosen for this position. I am following a history of strong leadership in the college, and I will continue that leadership during this transition period. We will not be in a holding pattern, but we will continue to move forward."

Johnson, who joined the Virginia Tech faculty in 1982, served as the acting associate provost for research during the 1992-1993 academic year and has been on special assignment to the Provost's Office on programmatic priorities.

She was the first candidate selected from the College of Human Resources for the leadership development course of the state agricultural experiment stations and the National Experiment Station Committee on Organization and Policy.

When the City of Roanoke established the City Manager's Task Force on Teen Pregnancy, Johnson volunteered as coordinator of support from the college. She is also on the University Committee for Greek Life as the liaison between the Office of Student Affairs and the Greek organizations.

She helped students in the college establish a student-member section of the American Association of Family and Consumer Scientists, and each year she leads the Consumer Foods students' annual tour.

The membership of Omicron Delta Kappa has recognized her work by presenting her with the Alfred Payne Award for service to the undergraduate community.